Looking for a fresh way to rock your natural hair? Short dread styles for Black women offer the perfect mix of style, confidence, and low-maintenance beauty.
Whether you’re just starting your loc journey or want a bold new twist, there’s something here for everyone. Dreads aren’t just a hairstyle—they’re a statement. And with shorter lengths, they’re even more versatile and fun.
You can dress them up, keep them casual, or switch them around to match your vibe. In this list, we’ve rounded up 15 short dread styles that you’ll absolutely adore.
1. Two-Strand Twists
Two-strand twists are a perfect short dread style for Black women who want something easy and stylish. Start with clean, moisturized hair and twist two strands tightly from root to tip.
You can wear them down or pull them into a cute updo. Add gold cuffs or colorful beads for fun. Pair this look with bold lipstick or a sharp cat-eye. Don’t forget to keep your twists moisturized and protect them with a satin scarf at night!
2. Curly Colored Dreads
Curly colored dreads are a fun way for Black women to switch up their short dread styles. Start with well-moisturized hair, then add vibrant colors using safe dyes or extensions.
The curls add extra bounce and texture, making the look playful and bold. Pair this style with natural makeup and simple accessories like hoops or headbands. Keep your hair hydrated and avoid harsh chemicals to maintain those curls and colors!
3. Short Freeform Dreads
Short freeform dreads are perfect for Black women who love a natural, low-maintenance look. You just let your hair lock up on its own without much twisting or styling.
Pair this style with fresh, glowing skin and minimal makeup to keep things effortless. Add simple accessories like beads or scarves for a touch of personality.
4. Dreadlocks bangs
Dreadlock bangs are a cool way to add some edge to short dread styles for Black women. You keep the front shorter and styled as bangs, while the rest flows naturally.
It frames your face nicely and adds a fresh vibe. Pair it with bold eyeliner or bright lipstick to make your features pop. Finish with simple accessories like clips or headbands.
5. Comb Coils
Comb coils are a neat and stylish short dread style for Black women who want defined, springy coils. You create them by twisting small sections of hair with a comb, which gives tight, uniform coils that look great on short hair.
Pair this look with fresh, natural makeup and simple accessories like gold hoops or scarves. Keep your coils moisturized and avoid heavy products to keep them looking sharp!
6. Blonde Swirly Dread Bun
A blonde swirly dread bun is a fun way to spice up short dread styles for Black women. You gather your dreads into a high bun and twist them around to create a swirl effect.
The blonde color adds a fresh, eye-catching touch. Pair it with glowing skin and neutral makeup to balance the look. Add simple gold accessories to complete the look.
7. Bantu Knots With Dreadlocks
Bantu knots with dreadlocks are a playful and stylish way to rock short dread styles for Black women. You section your dreads and twist each into a small knot all over your head.
It’s a great way to protect your hair and look cute at the same time. Pair this with bold lips or a fresh face, and add simple accessories like gold hoops or scarves.
8. Blonde Small Dreads
Blonde small dreads are a fresh twist on short dread styles for Black women. These tiny, delicate dreads add texture and fun, especially when dyed blonde for a bold contrast.
You can wear them loose or style them into mini updos. Pair this look with natural makeup and simple accessories like colorful beads or headbands.
9. Criss-Cross Dreadlocks
Criss-cross dreadlocks are a cool way to switch up short dread styles for Black women. You part your dreads and weave them over and under to create a fun, textured pattern.
It adds dimension without much effort. Pair this style with bold eyeliner or a bright lip to highlight your face. Add simple accessories like clips or beads.
10. Faux Updo For Short Locs
A faux updo for short locs is a clever way to switch up your look without waiting for length. You twist and pin your locs to create a stylish, full-updo illusion.
It works great for events or casual days when you want something different. Pair it with bold earrings and natural makeup to keep things balanced and fresh. This style is simple but makes a big impact!
11. Asymmetrical Bob
The asymmetrical bob is a bold, short dread style for Black women who want an edgy look. One side is longer than the other, giving your locs a cool, modern vibe.
You can wear it sleek or with some natural texture. Pair this style with sharp eyeliner or a bright lip to highlight your features. Add simple accessories like hoops or clips to finish the look.
12. Natural Dreadlocks Updo
A natural dreadlocks updo is a simple way to keep short dread styles for Black women looking neat and stylish. You gather your locs and pin them up loosely or tightly, depending on your mood.
It’s perfect for work or casual outings. Pair this look with fresh, minimal makeup and statement earrings. Add a colorful scarf or hairband for a little extra flair and personality.
13. Backcombed Short Dreadlocks
Backcombed starter dreads are ideal for beginning short locs with added volume and texture. This method teases hair backward with a comb to form the base of each dread, giving a fuller look.
Style minimally while they mature. Pair with a defined brow, nude lip, and clips for a bold yet effortless finish. Perfect for natural texture and low-maintenance beauty.
14. Intricate Twists
Intricate twists are a stylish way to elevate short dread styles for Black women. You twist small sections of hair in detailed patterns, creating a textured and eye-catching look.
It works well for both casual and formal occasions. Pair this style with bold lipstick or a soft, smoky eye. Add delicate accessories like beads to highlight the twists and keep your look fresh and fun.
15. Mohawk Dreads With Twisted Braids
Mohawk dreads with twisted braids are a fierce short dread style for Black women who want to stand out. You braid the sides tightly and leave the middle section as free-flowing dreads or twists.
It’s edgy and bold without being hard to manage. Pair this look with sharp eyeliner and a neutral lip. Add simple accessories like gold cuffs to complete the vibe and keep it fresh.
Conclusion
Short dread styles aren’t just trendy—they’re powerful expressions of beauty, culture, and confidence. Among the top picks, two-strand twists and curly colored dreads stand out for their versatility and flair. They’re easy to maintain yet stylish enough to turn heads anywhere. Celebrities like Willow Smith and Lisa Bonet have also rocked similar styles, proving just how iconic short locs can truly be.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I style my short dreads every day?
Try side parts, headbands, half-up buns, or clips. You can also twist front strands or use accessories to change up your daily look easily.
2. Are short dreads low maintenance?
Yes, short dreads are generally low maintenance. They require regular moisturizing, scalp care, and occasional retwisting to stay neat without needing daily styling.
3. Can you do updos with short dreads?
Absolutely! Mini buns, top knots, or twisted crowns work well. Using pins or bands helps secure your short dreads into stylish, creative updos.
4. Do short dreadlocks suit all face shapes?
Yes, short dreads can be styled to complement any face shape. Layering, parting, and volume control help tailor the look to your features.
